The Department of Health (DOH) on Wednesday, Dec. 6, officially confirmed the presence of four cases of mycoplasma pneumoniae commonly known as "walking pneumonia" among reported Influenza-like Illness (ILI) cases.
DOH pointed out that the affected individuals were identified in morbidity weeks three, 30, 37, and 38, with one case reported each week.
The health department said that the surveillance efforts are currently focused solely on ILI cases.
Mycoplasma pneumoniae is not a new pathogen having been previously detected among local cases, DOH said.
However, the DOH observed a concerning trend in 2023, with an increase in cases starting in late August.
The numbers sustained at a higher level for several weeks, but recent data shows a slowing down of the case increase.
In the most recent reporting period of Oct. 29 to Nov. 11, a total of 9,834 ILI cases were documented, reflecting an 11 percent decrease from the 11,106 cases reported two weeks earlier.
While the DOH anticipated a continued decline in ILI cases in the coming weeks based on a five-year analysis, a resurgence is expected by the beginning of January.
To curb the spread of respiratory infections, especially with the holiday season approaching, the health department strongly encouraged the public to undertake individual self-assessment.
Additionally, measures such as wearing masks, ensuring proper ventilation, isolating when sick, and receiving vaccinations and boosters are recommended to provide added protection against infection or severe disease.
It is noteworthy that Mycoplasma pneumoniae is not globally classified as a notifiable disease.
The DOH relies on media reports and information from global health organizations, such as the World Health Organization (WHO), for updates.
As of now, the department highlighted that China is the only country that has reported incidents of Mycoplasma pneumonia.
As the situation develops, the DOH remained vigilant and urges the public to stay informed about health guidelines and take necessary precautions to mitigate the spread of respiratory infections.